Serhat Akpınar Resigns from DP Secretary-General Post

Speaking to Kıbrıs Postası, Akpınar confirmed that he had handed in his resignation to the DP PM. In his letter, he emphasized that his decision was driven by differences in approach with the party leadership and a desire to avoid institutional conflict.

“It is with regret, yet out of necessity, that I have decided to step down from my duties as Secretary-General of the Democratic Party, a position I have held with honour and responsibility for approximately two and a half years,” Akpınar wrote.

During his tenure, Akpınar said he worked intensively alongside his deputy secretaries and administrative staff to strengthen the party’s institutional structure and create a sustainable organizational memory. He noted that the party’s internal processes had been systematized and that the groundwork for a smooth transition was complete.

However, Akpınar pointed to “methodological differences” between himself and DP leader Fikri Ataoğlu, particularly regarding political organization and management style. He stated that these differences had made it impossible to continue in his role in line with his own principles.

Akpınar also criticized what he described as unethical behaviour by certain members of the Party Assembly, who, he claimed, created a threatening atmosphere by targeting him and others within the party. He said such conduct was incompatible with the core values of the Democratic Party.

“Individuals without authority acting with a sense of entitlement to hold others accountable does not align with the values of the Democratic Party. It is not possible to move forward with such a mindset,” he added.

Despite stepping down from his executive role, Akpınar affirmed that he would continue to serve as an MP under the DP banner and expressed his willingness to undertake any additional responsibilities deemed appropriate by the party.

He concluded his statement by thanking the Party Assembly members who had supported him and extended his best wishes to General President Fikri Ataoğlu, underscoring once again that his resignation was a principled decision aimed at protecting the future of the party.